Seal Gaps, Save Energy

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gos Wye = we ESS aiQigor Ss we seal Gaps, Save Energy (NAPSA)—Whether its sum- mer or winter, h or cold, home- owners across America are looking for ways to save energy and save money. Air leakage accounts for between 25 and 40 percent of the energy used for heating and coaling a typical residence. Common au leakage paths include gaps around window and doors, joints between building materials, gaps around penetrations for piping, wiring and ducts as well as switch plates and outlet covers. This means that you could be wasting hundreds of dollars a year on air conditioning and heating bills. Plus, a properly sealed home will improve indoor air quality, improve comfort and lead to fewer condensation problems. There are many products available for air sealing your home including caulks, sealants and insulating foams. DAP, a leader in the home construction and repair industry, provides the following tips. Check thoroughly around all windows and doors for cracks and erevices which will lead to air leakage. * Inspect door frames, attic doors and access to crawlspaces for air leakage. Add weather-stripping as needed. * Check along the basement walis particularly at the top where wood framing (sill plate and joist) meets the top of the masonry wall. * Use an insulating foam sealant when installing new windows or replacing seasonal storm windows and doors. * Make sure all plumbing, utility and duct penetrations leading inte your home are properly sealed to prevent air leakage and pest infiltration. There are several products for these applications: The latest advancement in Foam Sealants is DAPtex” insu- . iu VL DAP says, “Caulk away high energy Bills.” lating foam sealant. This innovative product safely and easily provides a permanent insulating seal around windows, doors, pipes, vents and outlets. It is also excellent for filling large gaps. Best of all, DAPtex cleans up with water, won't over-expand and comes in an easy to apply aerosol can. Qne of the most advanced latex sealants is Dynaflex 280 premium elastomeric sealant. This highly flexible and durable sealant is paintable, cleans up with water and is backed by a 50 Year Guarantee. Likewise, DAP’s Titanium Silicone features the very best adhesion and flexibility on the market today and has a lifetime durability guarantee. Anher innovative product is Seal N Peel. It is removable weatherstrip caulk to temporarily seal drafty windows and doors. Simply apply to drafty windows and seasonally used doors, then easily peel away once spring arrives. Whether the h air is leaking im or out, sealing your house with a quality caulk, sealant or insulating foam will help you save energy and money. For more tips, go to www.dap.com or call the DAP help line at 1-888-DAPTIPS Monday through Sundayfrom 9:00AM -7:00PM EST.